The stadium was built on the site of the former 'Vorgebirgspark' area to replace older municipal sports grounds.
It is one of the few professional-level stadiums in Germany that still features a full-length athletic track around the football pitch.
The record attendance for the stadium was set during a 1980s DFB-Pokal match against 1. FC Köln.
The site includes multiple auxiliary training pitches used by the local youth football academy.
The stadium's main grandstand is one of the few covered sections, providing shelter against the region's frequent rainfall.
It remains a central venue for the 'Cologne School Sports' championships annually.
Südstadion is the primary multi-purpose sports venue in Cologne, best known as the home stadium of the football club SC Fortuna Köln. Located in the Zollstock district, it features a natural grass pitch surrounded by a running track and expansive terraced stands. The venue has a capacity of approximately 11,748 spectators, primarily utilized for Regionalliga West matches and local athletic events. Originally opened in 1978, the stadium serves as the central hub for the municipal sports association Köln. The architecture is characterized by its open-air bowl design and unobstructed views of the playing field. It hosts various regional sporting competitions and school championships throughout the year. The stadium is managed by Kölner Sportstätten GmbH, which oversees its maintenance and event scheduling.
From the highest point of the standing terraces to capture the full view of the pitch and the surrounding park trees.
Dress in layers as the open design leaves spectators exposed to wind and sudden weather changes.
Bring binoculars if you are seated in the outer sections, as the athletic track creates distance from the pitch.
Check the official match schedule beforehand, as the facility often closes to the public during league games.
Do not attempt to access the pitch or track area without authorization, as strict security measures are in place.
Closed to the general public during professional match days and private events.
No pyrotechnics or glass bottles allowed; fans are expected to remain in designated seating or standing blocks.
